Swalwell Denies Sexual Assault Claims as Pressure Mounts to Drop Governor Bid

Democratic Rep. Eric Swalwell faces growing calls to end his California gubernatorial campaign amid allegations of misconduct.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 12:04pm by

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A dimly lit, cinematic painting of an empty government office space, with warm sunlight streaming through the windows and deep shadows cast across the room, creating a sense of tension and unease.As sexual misconduct allegations rock a California gubernatorial campaign, the political landscape grows increasingly uncertain.San Francisco Today

Democratic Rep. Eric Swalwell firmly denied allegations of sexual assault that emerged on Friday, as calls mount for the lawmaker to drop his campaign for California governor. A former staffer accused Swalwell of sexually assaulting her twice when she was too drunk to consent, and three additional women accused the California Democrat of sexual misconduct, including sharing unsolicited explicit messages or nude photos. Significant political allies and party leaders have withdrawn their support for Swalwell's campaign in the aftermath of these reports.

Why it matters

The sexual assault allegations against Swalwell come at a critical time in his campaign for California governor, potentially derailing his political aspirations. The claims have sparked a major backlash from his own party, raising questions about his fitness for office and the ability of political leaders to address misconduct allegations within their ranks.

The details

In a video statement, Swalwell called the assault claims 'flat false,' stating they 'did not happen' and that he will 'fight them with everything that I have.' However, several top staffers have already quit his gubernatorial campaign, and Swalwell has lost major endorsements from close allies, including California Sen. Adam Schiff. Democratic House leadership also called the allegations 'incredibly disturbing' and pressed Swalwell to end his gubernatorial bid.

  • The sexual assault allegations against Swalwell emerged on Friday, April 11, 2026.
  • The San Francisco Chronicle first reported the account of a former staffer accusing Swalwell of sexual assault.
  • CNN later included three additional women who accused Swalwell of sexual misconduct, such as sharing unsolicited explicit messages or nude photos.

The players

Eric Swalwell

A Democratic U.S. Representative from California who is currently running for governor of the state.

Adam Schiff

A Democratic U.S. Senator from California who was a key supporter of Swalwell's gubernatorial campaign but has now withdrawn his endorsement.

Hakeem Jeffries

The House Minority Leader, who along with other Democratic House leadership, called the sexual assault allegations against Swalwell 'incredibly disturbing' and pressed him to end his gubernatorial bid.

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What they’re saying

“This woman was brave to come forward, and we should take her story seriously. I am withdrawing my endorsement immediately, and believe that he should withdraw from the race.”

— Adam Schiff, U.S. Senator, California

“This is unacceptable of anyone — certainly not an elected official — and must be taken seriously. We commend the courageous women for sharing their experiences. In this and all circumstances, we must ensure that those who come forward with allegations of sexual assault are heard and respected. All perpetrators of sexual assault and harassment must be held accountable.”

— Hakeem Jeffries, Katherine Clark, Pete Aguilar, House Democratic Leadership

“They are absolutely false. They did not happen. They have never happened, and I will fight them with everything that I have. They also come on the eve of an election where I have been the frontrunner candidate for governor in California.”

— Eric Swalwell

What’s next

Swalwell did not indicate whether he is considering withdrawing from the California gubernatorial race. The allegations against him will likely continue to be a major focus in the campaign, and it remains to be seen if he can withstand the growing pressure to end his bid.

The takeaway

The sexual assault claims against Swalwell have sparked a major political crisis that threatens to derail his gubernatorial campaign. The allegations have led to a swift backlash from his own party, underscoring the challenges political leaders face in addressing misconduct allegations and the high stakes involved in high-profile races.